Ratio Problem Example

Grades 6-7Key Stage 3Årskurs 6-7

Problem

Share $120 between Alex and Beth in the ratio 3:5. How much does each person get?

📝Step-by-Step Solution

1

Find the total parts

Add the ratio numbers: 3 + 5 = 8 parts total

Total parts = 3 + 5 = 8
2

Find the value of one part

Divide the total amount by the total parts: $120 ÷ 8 = $15 per part

One part = $120 ÷ 8 = $15
3

Calculate Alex's share

Alex gets 3 parts: 3 × $15 = $45

Alex = 3 × $15 = $45
4

Calculate Beth's share

Beth gets 5 parts: 5 × $15 = $75

Beth = 5 × $15 = $75
5

Check

Verify: $45 + $75 = $120 ✓ and 45:75 = 3:5 (divide both by 15) ✓

Final Answer

Alex gets $45, Beth gets $75

To share in a ratio: (1) Add ratio parts to get total, (2) Divide amount by total parts to find one part's value, (3) Multiply each ratio number by the part value. This method works for any "share in ratio" problem!

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